Fashion accessory

ABSTRACT

A fashion accessory which includes a housing ( 1 ) and an insert. The housing ( 1 ) includes a first opening ( 3 ) through which the insert is visible when in a seated position in the housing ( 1 ), and a second opening ( 4 ) through which the insert may be removably installed into the seated position. The fashion accessory ( 1 ) allows persons to have options in the appearance of their jewellery or other fashion accessories, allowing the inclusion of logos or other ornamental components to be inserted in the housing ( 1 ).

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to fashion items, and in particular to fashion accessories with interchangeable inserts.

BACKGROUND OF ART

Jewellery, clothes and other fashion accessories currently available primarily focus on single buy, single use models. Brand names, logos and other patterns or designs are generally a permanent part of the item, such as a printed logo, a tag sewn to the item, or embroidery on clothes or other accessories. A fashion accessory suitable for casual use is generally not adaptable to be used at a formal function, for example.

One area where interchangeable designs has been attempted is jewellery. Jewellers have tried a number of methods to fix the problem of single use jewellery by making lines that are more diversified and customised. A few of the more common and relevant forms are below.

Charm Jewellery: The field of charm jewellery is not new by any means. Retailers aim to solve the issue of single use jewellery by offering a range of “charms” that change the initial bracelet model to reflect personal attributes and aesthetics. However. this “keepsake” form tends to be an amalgamation of different pieces rather than interchangeable parts that make the overall look of the jewellery item more appropriate for different settings.

Magnetic Jewellery: Magnetic Jewellery has also seen a recent rise in popularity and in particular customisable options. Magnetic jewellery tends to be relatively cheap but also relatively fragile. Its inherent nature of being able to be taken apart and put together easily makes it a viable option for changing one piece of jewellery into something more appropriate for another setting. Yet, the volume of pieces needed to create a new model from the existing makes it impractical.

As mentioned above, charm jewellery does allow customers some level of customisation and personalisation to the limitations of the individual collections offered by specific jewellery companies. In addition, these charms are then worn together in a jewellery equivalent of a “scrapbook”. These options while fun and sometimes meaningful do not change the inherent problem of whether or not this particular item is appropriate for the setting. A charm bracelet for everyday use is fine in most contexts but may not be appropriate for a formal dinner, for example. The advantage in this process is the range and accessibility of options. Most jewellers carry a charm line so it is very easy to get one that reflects something meaningful to you.

Magnetic jewellery happens to be very versatile, easy to use, fun and creative. However, it is relatively new and a large range of pieces is difficult to come by. That being said it is very easy to redo combinations and make completely new items with existing pieces. This is the large draw of magnetic beads and pieces. On the other hand the constant wear of taking apart and recreating makes this type of jewellery fragile and unreliable.

In terms of other fashion accessories, such as clothes and handbags, interchangeable components similar to those above are not seen. One example is the use of badges or brooches that can be pinned onto a jacket, coat or other items such as handbags. However, a purpose designed item with a replaceable component is not readily available.

The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or admission or any form of suggestion that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention seeks to provide a fashion accessory that is adaptable, to allow a single model to have a variety of uses. The invention may allow men and women to have options in the appearance and style of their jewellery, clothing or other accessory.

The invention seeks to provide one all purpose item, which can then be tailored to specific purposes through interchangeable inserts. As a result, an item that was used that morning for a casual function, for example, can easily become a formal accessory in a few seconds by changing the insert. Similarly, a company logo in a work uniform may be changed for a different logo or design, converting the uniform into casual or formal attire. Changing the design of an accessory may also allow the item to be used more often.

According to one example aspect, there is provided a fashion accessory, including a housing and an insert, wherein the housing includes a first opening through which the insert is visible when in a seated position in the housing, and a second opening through which the insert may be removably installed into the seated position.

In another form, the insert is held in place in the housing by a retaining means.

In another form, the retaining means include at least one magnet.

In another form, the housing includes a skirt that prevents the insert from being removed from the first opening.

In another form, the insert is shaped to substantially conform to a void that connects the first and second openings.

In another form, magnet's form at least part of the walls of the void.

In another form, the void and the insert are rectangular.

In another form, the two long sides of the void have magnets inlaid on an interior surface.

In another form, the two long sides of the insert are magnetised.

In another form, the two long sides of the insert are steel strips.

In another form, the two long sides of the insert are nickel plated.

In another form, the insert is configured to fit in the housing such that an outer face of the insert is aligned with an outer face of the housing when the insert is in the seated position.

According to another example aspect, there is provided an insert for a fashion accessory, wherein the fashion accessory includes a housing into which the insert can be fitted.

In another form, the insert is magnetic.

In another form, the fashion accessory is substantially as herein described.

In another form, the fashion accessory is a bracelet.

In another form, in use the second opening is located proximal to a wrist of a person wearing the fashion accessory.

In another form, a hand of the fashion accessory is removable from the housing.

In another form, the fashion accessory is a boot or shoe.

In another form, the fashion accessory is sewn into a wall of the fashion accessory so that the second opening is located proximal to a foot, ankle or leg of a person wearing the fashion accessory.

In another form, the fashion accessory is a coat or jacket.

In another form, the housing is sewn into a panel of the fashion accessory so that the second opening is located so that it faces the inside of the fashion accessory.

In another form, the fashion accessory is a wallet.

In another form, the fashion accessory is a handbag.

According to another example aspect, there is provided a fashion accessory, including a pocket into which an insert can be placed. wherein the pocket includes at least one transparent panel through which the insert can be seen when inside the pocket.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Example embodiments should become apparent from the following description, which is given by way of example only, of at least one preferred but non-limiting embodiment, described in connection with the accompanying figures.

FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of a housing;

FIG. 2 illustrates a bottom view of a housing;

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view cross section of a housing;

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of an insert;

FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom view of an insert;

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of an insert;

FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment in the form of a bracelet being worn on the wrist of a person;

FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of an embodiment in the form of a shoe;

FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of an embodiment in the form of a shoe;

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment in the form of a jacket;

FIG. 11 illustrates a pocket as may be used in the embodiment of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 illustrates a view of an embodiment in the form of a wallet where the wallet is open;

FIG. 13 illustrates a view of an embodiment in the form of a wallet where the wallet is closed;

FIG. 14 illustrates a front view of an embodiment in the form of a handbag; and

FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of an embodiment in the form of a handbag.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following modes, given by way of example only, are described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of a preferred embodiment or embodiments.

In the figures, incorporated to illustrate features of an example embodiment, like reference numerals are used to identify like parts throughout the figures.

Referring to FIG. 1, a housing 2 is shown that is suitable to form part of a fashion accessory. The housing 2 includes a first opening 3 through which an insert may be seen when seated in the housing 2. The embodiment shown is suitable for use as an item of jewellery. The housing 2 includes attachment points 7 where a chain, strap or other component of the jewellery item may be connected. This connection may be releasable, thereby allowing the chain, strap or other item to be interchangeable. In alternative embodiments, particularly where the fashion accessory is something other than a jewellery item, these attachment points 7 may not be present, or may be in another form.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the housing 2 is shown from the opposite side to that in FIG. 1. This side includes a second opening 4 through which an insert may be installed into the seated position. A skirt 5 can be seen in this figure. The insert abuts the skirt 5 when in the seated position, the skirt 5 thereby preventing the insert from being removed through the first opening 3.

Referring now to FIG. 3, the cross section shows a magnet 6 inlaid into the inside wall of the housing 2. This magnet 6 interacts with the insert to create a retaining means that prevent the insert from falling out of the housing 2 once in the seated position. The outer face 8 of the housing 2 will preferably align with an outer face of an insert when the insert is in the seated position.

Referring now to FIG. 4, an insert 1 is shown that includes an outer face 11 and a cutout 12. The outer face 11 is visible through the first opening 3 of the housing 2 when the insert 1 is installed in the housing 2. The cutout 12 is shaped to abut the skirt 5 when the insert 1 is in the seated position. This embodiment of the insert 1 also includes steel strips 13 along the long sides. The strips 13 may be magnetised to interact with the magnets 6 in the housing 2 and retain the insert 1 in the housing 2. The strips 13, however, may be made from any other suitable material or in alternative embodiments may not be present, relying instead on the insert 1 simply being made of metal that may be attracted by the magnets 6. In yet another embodiment the strips 13 or the sides of the insert may be nickel plated.

Referring now to FIG. 5, the opposite side of the insert 1 is shown, illustrating the opposite face 14. Again this figure shows the optional steel strips 13 that may be included in a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows a side view of the insert 1. This figure illustrates in more detail the shape of the cutout 12. When comparing this shape to that of the void in the housing 2 as shown in FIG. 3, it can be seen that the insert matches the cross section of the void. It can also be seen that when the insert 1 is in the seated position the outer face 11 will be flush with the outer face 8 of the housing 2. Again the steel strips 13 are shown in FIG. 6.

Referring now to FIG. 7, an embodiment of an item of jewellery 10 is shown, which in this case takes the form of a bracelet. The outer face 11 of the insert 1 is visible through the first opening 3 of the housing 2. A band 20 is also shown attached to the housing 2.

When the insert 1 is fitted in the housing 2 the magnets 6 will hold the insert 1 in place, while the skirt 5 will stop the insert 1 from falling through the first opening 3, and the user's arm will also prevent the insert 1 from falling through the second opening 4. When in the seated position the outer face 11 of the insert 1 will be aligned with the outer face 8 of the housing 2 giving the illusion of one continuous piece.

Many alternative embodiments of the invention exist that use different methods of securing the insert 1 in the housing 2. These may include, but are not limited to:

-   -   a lock system similar to that found on a door including a hinge         that opens and closes from the top or the bottom of the housing         and using any of magnets, hooks, pins, latch, clasp, chain, key,         springs, or another system;     -   a magnet laid on the bottom side of the housing which is covered         and the insert is placed into the housing from the top; or     -   a housing that allows the insert to slide in and out via an         opening in the side of the housing which again may use magnets,         hooks, pins, latch, clasp, chain, key, springs, or another         system to hold in place.

Other alternative embodiments may vary the shape and design of the housing and inserts, so that they may not be rectangular.

The insert 1 will be fitted and removed from the housing 2 through the second opening 4. To install an insert 1 the housing 2 is first turned over to provide access to the second opening 4. The insert 1 is turned so that the outer face 11 is facing down into the housing 2. The insert 1 is placed into the housing 2 until the cutout 12 of the insert 1 is seated against the skirt 5 of the housing 2. The insert 1 will be locked in place by the magnets 6. The jewellery item, including the housing 2, may then be put on. To remove an insert 1 the jewellery item is first taken off. The insert 1 can then be pushed down from the outer face 11, so that it moves out of the housing 2 via the second opening 4. The empty housing 2 may then be fitted with another insert 1.

The present invention in the form of a bracelet 10 also lends itself to customisation of the bands 20 that go around the wrist, adding another level of personalisation and customisability. Similarly, chains or straps used with other types of jewellery may also be interchangeable.

The housing 2 is designed so that the insert 1 is easy to place and remove yet once in place won't fall out from either opening of the housing 2. The simplicity of the design makes use and re-use of the invention very easy, reducing the difficulty of learning complicated engineering or technological sequences.

The housing 2 and insert 1 as described above may be adapted to be part of any one of a wide range of fashion items other than jewellery items.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, an example embodiment is shown where the insert 1 and housing 2 are installed in a boot or shoe 30. The housing 2 will typically be permanently attached to the shoe 30, so that an insert 1 may be easily changed. The housing 2 will be fixed in an opening in a wall of the shoe 30. In this way the insert 1 can be inserted from the inside of the shoe 30, closest to the leg, ankle or foot of the person, depending on the location of the housing 2. This allows the outer face 11 to be visible while the shoe 30 is being worn, with the insert 1 easily changed by removing the shoe 30 and pushing the insert 1 out of the housing 2 via the second opening 4 into the inside of the shoe.

Preferably, the outer face 11, the outer face 8 and the outside of the shoe may all be flush. Also preferably, the opposite face 14, the inner face of the housing 2 and the inside surface of the shoe 30 may be flush, thereby allowing the shoe 30 to remain comfortable to wear.

In another embodiment, the housing may also be removable from the shoe 30, such as by being held in place by a pocket in the shoe 30. In yet another embodiment, the insert may simply be held in a pocket, without the need for the housing 2. Such a pocket may be similar to that in further embodiments described below.

Referring to FIG. 10, another example embodiment is shown where the insert 1 and the housing 2 are installed in an item of clothing, in this case a jacket 40. Any other item of clothing may also be used, such as a shirt, pants, blazer, suit, or coat. Once again the housing 2 may be permanently fixed in the jacket 40, creating a hole when the insert 1 is removed. Similar to the embodiments described above, the outer face 11 is visible from the outside of the jacket 40 and the insert 1 can be removed through the second opening 4 towards the inside of the jacket 40.

Referring to FIG. 11, an alternative method of mounting the insert 1 and/or housing 2 is shown. This method uses a pocket 42, where the housing 2 with insert 1 installed is placed in the pocket and closed using a zipper 43 or other similar closing device. In yet another embodiment, the housing 2 may not be present, with the insert 1 simply being placed into the pocket 42. At least the outer portion of the pocket will be transparent, thereby allowing the insert 1 to be visible when installed.

Referring to FIG. 12, another example embodiment is shown where the insert 1 and the housing 2 are installed in a wallet 50. In a similar way to the embodiments described above, the housing 2 may be permanently fixed in the wallet 50, creating a hole when the insert 1 is removed. In one example, the outer face 11 is visible when the wallet 50 is closed, as shown in FIG. 13, with the insert being removed by pushing through the second opening 4 towards the inside of the wallet 50.

In another example embodiment, the insert 1 and/or housing 2 may be held in a pocket 42, similar to the embodiment described above with a pocket 42 in a jacket 40. Here the pocket may form part of the wallet 50.

Referring to FIG. 14, another example embodiment is shown where the insert 1 and the housing 2 are installed in a handbag 60. Similar to the wallet 50 and jacket 40, the housing 2 may form part of the side of the handbag 60. In alternative embodiments a pocket 42 may be used where the pocket 42 is attached to or forms part of the side of the handbag 60 and where the housing 2 is optionally used.

Many other fashion accessories incorporating the invention as described above may be envisaged and fall within the scope of the present invention, such as, but not limited to, necklaces, sunglasses, backpacks, satchels, travel bags, suit cases or other luggage, hats, caps, watches, scarves, gloves, belts, phone or tablet cases, laptop bags or covers, and hair pieces. In each case the housing 2 is attached to or incorporated into part of the item so that various inserts 1 can be attached or removed and swapped.

Many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. 

1. A fashion accessory including a housing and an insert, wherein the housing includes a first opening through which the insert is visible when in a seated position in the housing, and a second opening through which the insert may be removably installed into the seated position.
 2. The fashion accessory according to claim 1, wherein the insert is held in place in the housing by a retaining means.
 3. The fashion accessory according to claim 1, wherein the insert is held in place in the housing by a retaining means that include at least one magnet.
 4. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the housing includes a skirt that prevents the insert from being removed from the first opening.
 5. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the insert is shaped to substantially conform to a void that connects the first and second openings.
 6. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the insert is shaped to substantially conform to a void that connects the first and second openings and wherein magnets form at least part of the walls of the void.
 7. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the insert is shaped to substantially conform to a void that connects the first and second openings, wherein the void and the insert are rectangular.
 8. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the insert is shaped to substantially conform to a rectangular void that connects the first and second openings, wherein the two long sides of the void have magnets inlaid on an interior surface.
 9. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the insert is shaped to substantially conform to a rectangular void that connects the first and second openings, wherein the two long sides of the insert are magnetised.
 10. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the insert is shaped to substantially conform to a rectangular void that connects the first and second openings, wherein the two long sides of the void are magnetic and the two long sides of the insert are steel strips.
 11. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the insert is configured to fit in the housing such that an outer face of the insert is aligned with an outer face of the housing when the insert is in the seated position.
 12. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fashion accessory is a bracelet.
 13. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fashion accessory is a bracelet and in use the second opening is located proximal to a wrist of a person wearing the fashion accessory.
 14. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fashion accessory is a bracelet and a band of the fashion accessory is removable from the housing.
 15. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fashion accessory is a boot or shoe.
 16. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fashion accessory is as hoot or shoe and the housing is part of a wall of the boot or shoe so that the second opening is located proximal to a foot, ankle or leg of a person wearing the fashion accessory.
 17. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fashion accessory is a coat or jacket.
 18. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fashion accessory is a coat or jacket and the housing is part of a panel, of the coat or jacket so that the second opening is located so that it faces the inside of the fashion accessory.
 19. The fashion accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fashion accessory is a wallet or a handbag.
 20. An insert for a fashion accessory, wherein the fashion accessory is defined according to any one of claims 1 to
 19. 